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Maternity clothes: buy or skip them?
Pregnancy

Maternity clothes: buy or skip them?

3 min readWeek 19
Key takeaways
3 min
  • Invest in essential maternity pieces like properly fitting jeans, supportive bras, and winter coats if needed during your pregnancy timeline.
  • Borrow from friends or shop at resale stores to save money on maternity clothes you'll only wear for a few months.
  • Keep wearing oversized dresses, unbuttoned blazers, cardigans, and high-waisted maxi dresses from your existing wardrobe.
  • Prioritize comfort and proper fit over fashion - avoid tight clothes that restrict blood flow and movement during pregnancy.
  • Consider convertible maternity coats that can later accommodate babywearing for extended use beyond pregnancy.

Buy essential maternity pieces like properly fitting jeans with belly panels, supportive bras, and winter coats if needed. Skip most other items by using existing oversized dresses, unbuttoned blazers, and stretchy clothes from your current wardrobe to save money.

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The moment has come when your regular clothes cease to be comfortable, and you simply cannot fit into some of your favorite things. What’s the best way to update your wardrobe?

You need to find a comfortable style that takes into account all the nuances of your changing figure. Maternity clothes will fit better and take into account your belly bump. Clothes during pregnancy should not be too tight — you want to avoid restricting blood flow and movement.

However, it’s important to remember that maternity clothes will only be useful for you for a few months. Here we suggest what the must-haves versus the probably-nots. Pro tip: a lot of your friends have a box of maternity clothes that they will happily let you borrow. Also, resale shops often have cute inexpensive maternity clothes that are still in great condition.

What kind of maternity clothes do I need?

There are a few things that are must-haves for every pregnant woman.

Jeans / trousers / leggings

Maternity jeans have a special wide elastic waistband that adjusts to your belly. Having a go-to pair during pregnancy will help you avoid feeling like you are in your pajamas all the time. That said, you will also want a good pair of maternity leggings that also adjust to your belly. Wearing oversized pants or your regular pants unzipped will not only be uncomfortable, but may make you feel sloppy and sad.

Bras

As your breasts grow, your lingerie must change. Now you need a bra with wide straps that will provide good support. You can choose a nursing bra now, which will be useful both during pregnancy, and also while you are breastfeeding.

Winter clothes

If the second half of pregnancy occurs during winter, depending on your climate, it may be worth it to buy special maternity winter clothes. Regular long-johns, for example, will constantly roll down and press on the growing belly. You may also want to choose a winter coat made especially for pregnancy, since your normal one will most likely be cramped and inconvenient to walk and sit. Consider the kinds of convertible jackets with a pouch for the child. Thanks to the zippers on the sides, you can adjust its width during pregnancy and, after childbirth, use the pocket-insert to carry baby under your jacket. If you can’t find a winter coat you like, a larger size coat from a second-hand clothing store might just do the trick.

What regular clothes still work during maternity?

You can find almost everything else in your closet.

  • Blazers and cardigans. They can be paired with classic maternity trousers if you need to go to work. No need to button them.

  • A basic knitted or light summer maxi dress with a high waist is an indispensable piece of clothing during the holidays and outings. Comfortable and cute.

  • Oversized dresses and sweatshirts. Pay attention to the length of the item — sometimes it is significantly reduced due to the belly.

Frequently asked questions

Essential maternity purchases include well-fitting jeans or leggings with belly panels, supportive maternity bras, and winter coats if you'll be pregnant during cold months. These items provide proper support and comfort that regular clothes cannot offer during pregnancy.

Yes, many regular clothes work throughout pregnancy including oversized dresses, unbuttoned blazers, cardigans, and high-waisted maxi dresses. Focus on loose-fitting, stretchy fabrics that can accommodate your growing belly.

Save money by borrowing from friends, shopping at resale stores, or buying secondhand maternity clothes online. Many maternity items are gently used since they're worn for only a few months.

Start shopping for maternity clothes when your regular clothes become uncomfortable or too tight, typically around 12-16 weeks of pregnancy. Don't wait until clothes are restricting your movement or circulation.

Medical Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

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Reviewed by healthcare professionals · Updated March 25, 2025

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